A ripple on the surface of water is an example of a transverse wave. Describe the key features of a transverse wave, including what is meant by amplitude, wavelength, and frequency.

Eduqas GCSE Physics — 1.5 Features of waves · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

A transverse wave is one in which the oscillations of the particles are perpendicular to the direction of wave travel.

• Amplitude is the maximum displacement of a point on the wave from its rest position.

• Wavelength is the distance between two successive points that are in phase, e.g. one crest to the next crest.

• Frequency is the number of complete oscillations that pass a fixed point each second, measured in hertz (Hz).

Examiner tips

  • Use the word ‘perpendicular’ to describe the direction of oscillation. Mention ‘rest position’ when defining amplitude. State wavelength as crest‑to‑crest or trough‑to‑trough. Define frequency as cycles per second (Hz).

Common mistakes

  • Confusing transverse with longitudinal waves. Using ‘parallel’ instead of ‘perpendicular’ for particle motion. Omitting the unit hertz when describing frequency.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. In a transverse wave, the oscillations/vibrations are perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of wave travel/energy transfer.
  2. Amplitude is the maximum displacement of a point on the wave from its undisturbed/rest position.
  3. Wavelength is the distance between two successive points that are in phase / the distance from one crest to the next crest (or one trough to the next trough).
  4. Frequency is the number of complete waves/oscillations passing a point per second, measured in hertz (Hz).

Key terms in this question

transverse wave · amplitude · wavelength · frequency

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